Sausage and Peppers: A Flavorful Italian-Inspired Dish

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Italy with this delectable Sausage and Peppers recipe. Bursting with vibrant colors and robust aromas, this dish is a celebration of classic Italian ingredients. Tender Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, onions, garlic, and fragrant herbs come together in a harmonious medley that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or craving a comforting meal for the family, Sausage and Peppers is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into the culinary journey and learn how to create this irresistible Italian-inspired dish!

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1 package Johnsonville Naturals Mild Italian Sausage
• 1 green pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 sweet onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Johnsonville Naturals Mild Italian Sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced green pepper, red pepper, and sweet onions. Cook until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and add the diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir in the salt, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and serve the Sausage and Peppers hot. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level of the dish. For a milder version, use less red pepper flakes, or omit them altogether.
• Tomato Variations: You can customize the dish by using different types of canned tomatoes, such as fire-roasted tomatoes or diced tomatoes with Italian herbs.
• Sausage Options: Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage for this recipe, whether it’s sweet Italian sausage, hot Italian sausage, or chicken sausage for a lighter option.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

To make a keto-friendly version of Sausage and Peppers, consider the following adjustments:

• Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier fat source.
• Serve the dish over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta to keep it low in carbs.
• Use sugar-free canned tomatoes or fresh tomatoes to reduce the carb content of the dish.

Low-Carb Version:

For a low-carb twist on this classic dish, try the following modifications:

• Omit the onions or reduce the amount used to lower the carb content.
• Substitute the sweet peppers with lower-carb options such as bell peppers or poblano peppers.
• Serve the Sausage and Peppers over spaghetti squash or a bed of mixed greens for a lighter, low-carb meal.

In conclusion, Sausage and Peppers is a timeless Italian dish that never fails to impress. With its hearty flavors and comforting appeal, it’s the perfect meal for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a taste of Italy at home, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the cobblestone streets of Rome. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Sausage and Peppers!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild Italian sausage? A: Yes, you can certainly use spicy Italian sausage for a kick of heat in this recipe. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes accordingly to control the spice level.

Q: Can I make this dish in advance and reheat it later? A: Yes, Sausage and Peppers can be made ahead of time and reheated later. Simply store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, for added flavor and nutrition.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free? A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels of any canned or packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free certified.

Q: Can I serve this dish with pasta or rice? A: While Sausage and Peppers is traditionally served on its own or with crusty bread, you can certainly serve it with pasta, rice, or polenta for a more substantial meal. Adjust the portion sizes accordingly to fit your dietary preferences.